Definition of constituentnext

constituent

2 of 2

adjective

Synonym Chooser

How is the word constituent distinct from other similar nouns?

Some common synonyms of constituent are component, element, and ingredient. While all these words mean "one of the parts of a compound or complex whole," constituent stresses its essential and formative character.

the constituents of a chemical compound

How are the words component and constituent related?

Both component and constituent may designate any of the substances (whether elements or compounds) or the qualities that enter into the makeup of a complex product; component stresses its separate entity or distinguishable character.

the components of a stereo system

When is it sensible to use element instead of constituent?

While the synonyms element and constituent are close in meaning, element applies to any such part and often connotes irreducible simplicity.

the basic elements of geometry

When is ingredient a more appropriate choice than constituent?

Although the words ingredient and constituent have much in common, ingredient applies to any of the substances which when combined form a particular mixture.

the ingredients of a cocktail

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of constituent
Noun
The political class feels confident that villainizing utilities for profits will distract constituents from the consequences of short-sighted energy policy. Torrey Snow, Baltimore Sun, 8 July 2026 Several constituents raised concerns about losing SNAP benefits under the new law. Lauren Peller, ABC News, 8 July 2026
Adjective
That means publicly reporting things like constituent response times, the number of community meetings and listening sessions held, and attendance across different parts of the district. Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 20 May 2026 The non-Equity wing of the Joseph Jefferson Awards (the Jeffs) was established in 1973 as Chicago’s non-Equity community of non-union theaters, famed for its creativity and constituent talent, was taking flight. Chris Jones, Chicago Tribune, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for constituent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for constituent
Noun
  • The work stoppage at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and MGB Home Care sites began Wednesday, when Massachusetts Nurses Association members voted to strike after months of contract negotiations failed.
    Grace Zokovitch, Boston Herald, 10 July 2026
  • Often, he was told, immigrants aren’t given the chance to call family members before they’re released, and are dropped off at a nearby plaza, often with uncharged cellphones or no phone at all.
    Itzel Luna, Los Angeles Times, 10 July 2026
Adjective
  • In a renowned 2006 review published in Educational Research Review, researchers traced how working memory evolved from a simple storage system into a more dynamic, multi-component process.
    Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026
  • Much of Lofton’s research looks at developing a multi-level, multi-component food system intervention to address food insecurity inequities amongst Black American residents living in predominantly Black communities.
    Zareen Syed, Chicago Tribune, 29 Apr. 2026
Noun
  • It's packed with efficacious skin care ingredients to smooth and firm mature complexions.
    Tamim Alnuweiri, InStyle, 6 July 2026
  • Chickpeas The main ingredient in hummus and falafel, chickpeas are teeming with protein.
    Kirsten Nunez, Martha Stewart, 5 July 2026
Adjective
  • Public health data has taught us that alcohol, which can be fine when consumed in moderation, can be harmful to individual and societal health in excessive amounts.
    Adam Hoffer, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
  • This same format actually applies to individual episodes as well.
    Erik Kain, Forbes.com, 5 July 2026
Noun
  • The space is a balance between tropical escape and late-night lounge, with moody lighting, sexy design elements and music that keeps the energy elevated throughout the evening.
    Blair Crosby, AJC.com, 5 July 2026
  • The Samba sneakers add a sporty element, while proving to be comfortable and easy to walk around in around New York City.
    Reece Andavolgyi, InStyle, 5 July 2026
Noun
  • State leaders pointed to existing defense assets, manufacturing capacity, and workforce as key factors in attracting the company.
    Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 4 July 2026
  • For instance, France is favored more by markets, reflecting factors beyond pure team strength, while Argentina and Morocco show higher probabilities in the FIFA model.
    Giovanni Malloy, Forbes.com, 4 July 2026

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Constituent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/constituent. Accessed 11 Jul. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on constituent

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!

More from Merriam-Webster